The prostate is a tiny gland found between the bladder and the penis that is unique to men. It’s about the size of a walnut and usually gets a little bigger after a man turns 40. The primary function of the prostate is to generate semen, a viscous white fluid that combines with testicular sperm. The primary function of the prostate is to generate semen, a viscous white fluid that combines with testicular sperm. Additionally, it produces a chemical known as prostate-specific antigen (PSA), which aids in the liquidization of semen.
Several factors can raise the risk of developing prostate cancer. Age is a significant determinant, with males over 50 being at a higher risk. Family history also plays a role; having close relatives with prostate cancer increases your chances. Genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 further elevate risk. African American men are particularly vulnerable. Diets high in red meat and dairy, along with being overweight, can contribute to aggressive prostate cancer. Hormonal factors, such as elevated testosterone levels, and exposure to certain chemicals are also relevant. Regular check-ups at the Best Urology Center in Bahrain, like Dr. Das Clinic, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce these risks.
In many situations, prostate cancer symptoms do not develop until the prostate gland has expanded to the point that it obstructs urine flow.
Some urinary symptoms include:
- Frequency of urination with or without decreased urine flow
- Urgency
- The existence of blood in semen or urine
- Burning sensation in the penis
Other signs of prostate cancer include feeling tired (anemia), pain in the bones (like in your back, hips, and legs), trouble with erections, broken bones, not feeling hungry, losing weight, and pain during ejaculation.
Understanding Prostate Cancer Staging and Its Importance in Treatment
Prostate cancer is divided into different stages. Staging allows doctors to determine the best treatment and outlook for each individual. It uses tests to determine the stage of the cancer, such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, digital rectal exams (DREs), imaging tests like MRI or ultrasound, and prostate biopsy results. Your PSA level, the size and spread of the tumor, and the grade of the disease all affect the stage.
Prostate cancer is classified into two stages: early-stage and advanced. Early-stage cancer (stages I-IIIC) indicates that it has not gone beyond the prostate. The cancer has spread to neighboring lymph nodes (Stage IVA) or other body parts (Stage IVB).
Prostate cancer stages include:
- Stage I: Prostate cancer may be too small to be seen on imaging tests or during a digital rectal exam (DRE).
- Stage II: Cancer that is still limited to the prostate gland may be bigger and detectable with a digital rectal exam (DRE) or imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound.
- Stage III: Cancer may have migrated from the prostate gland to surrounding tissues such as the seminal vesicles. However, it has not migrated to neighboring lymph nodes or other areas of the body. This type of prostate cancer is referred to as locally progressed.
- Stage IV: The prostate’s surrounding lymph nodes have been affected by cancer, but other bodily parts have not been affected. We call this localized prostate cancer.
- Stage IVB: Bones, lymph nodes, and other distant organs or tissues have been affected by cancer. Stage IVB is referred to as metastatic prostate cancer.
Once you are aware of the prostate cancer’s stage, you can discuss treatment options with your physician. Localized prostate cancer (Stages I and II) treatment options may include surgery (radical prostatectomy), radiation therapy (such as external beam radiation or brachytherapy), or active surveillance. Active surveillance is closely monitoring the cancer without treating it straight away unless it becomes worse.
For locally advanced prostate cancer (Stage III), treatment options may include a combination of surgery and radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy. These methods aim to attack cancer cells and lower the chances of the cancer coming back or spreading.
The goals of treatment for regional and metastatic prostate cancer (Stage IVA and Stage IVB) are to reduce symptoms, limit the progression of the illness, and enhance quality of life. Options may include hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or palliative care, which helps manage symptoms and offers support.
Laser and Rezum Therapy for Prostate Cancer Treatment
Laser Treatment: This therapy eliminates prostate cancer cells by using concentrated light. It’s minimally invasive, meaning there’s less blood loss and faster recovery, making it a good option for localized prostate cancer.
Rezum Treatment: Rezum is mainly used for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and uses steam to remove extra prostate tissue. It can benefit people with both BPH and prostate cancer with their symptoms, but it is not the primary treatment for prostate cancer.
If detected and treated early, prostate cancer may occasionally be curable. Radiation, hormone therapy, and surgery are available forms of treatment. However, this therapy may cause urinary problems and erectile dysfunction.
Cancer is incurable if it is discovered later in life and has spread to other bodily parts. In these situations, the goal of prostate cancer treatment is to prolong life and lessen symptoms.
These symptoms may indicate that something is amiss, but they may not necessarily indicate that you have prostate cancer. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor, especially at the Best Urology Center in Bahrain, like Dr. Das Clinic. To assess the condition of your prostate, they may recommend a PSA test or a Direct Rectal Examination (DRE). You can get peace of mind and ensure your well-being by following these procedures.
